Can a 13-Year-Old Get Pierced in Oregon? What You Need

Multnomah Body Piercing · 2026-05-15

Can a 13-Year-Old Get Pierced in Oregon? Legal Requirements and What Parents Need to Know

If you're a parent in Oregon with a teenager asking for a piercing, you're not alone. Body piercing has become a mainstream form of self-expression for young people, and understanding the legal landscape in your state is essential before saying yes. Oregon has specific regulations governing body piercings for minors, and knowing these rules will help you make an informed decision for your child.

The short answer is: yes, a 13-year-old can get pierced in Oregon, but there are important requirements you need to understand. Unlike some states with more restrictive laws, Oregon allows minors to receive piercings with parental consent and under specific safety conditions. However, the details matter, and choosing a reputable piercer who follows proper protocols is crucial for your child's health and safety.

Oregon's Age and Consent Laws for Body Piercing

Oregon Revised Statutes (ORS) Chapter 460C governs body piercing establishments and practitioners. According to these regulations, minors under 18 years old can receive body piercings, but only with verifiable parental or guardian consent. This means a parent or legal guardian must be physically present during the piercing procedure and must provide written authorization.

The law specifies that the parent or guardian cannot simply sign a form and leave—they must remain at the establishment during the piercing. This requirement ensures accountability and protects young people from pressure or unsafe situations. When you visit an experienced shop like Multnomah Body Piercing, Oregon's original piercing family established in 1974, staff members are well-versed in these legal requirements and will guide you through the process.

For a 13-year-old specifically, parental presence and consent are non-negotiable. The piercer will ask to see a valid government-issued ID from the accompanying parent or guardian to verify their identity and authority to consent. This is not optional—it's a legal requirement that legitimate piercing establishments strictly enforce.

Where You Can Get Your 13-Year-Old Safely Pierced in Oregon

Oregon requires that all body piercing be performed in licensed establishments by trained professionals. This is a critical distinction from states with fewer regulations. A licensed piercing shop must follow strict health and safety standards, including sterilization protocols, infection control measures, and proper documentation.

When searching for a piercer for your teenager, look for these credentials:

• A current Oregon body piercing establishment license
• Staff who have completed bloodborne pathogen training
• Adherence to the Association of Professional Piercers (APP) standards
• Use of autoclave sterilization for all reusable equipment
• Single-use, sterile needles (never guns)
• Clean, professional facilities

Multnomah Body Piercing meets and exceeds all these requirements. As a long-established shop with decades of experience, they understand Oregon's regulations thoroughly and prioritize the safety and comfort of young clients. Their commitment to professional standards has made them a trusted choice for families throughout Oregon for nearly 50 years.

What Type of Piercings Can a 13-Year-Old Get?

Oregon law doesn't restrict specific piercing locations for minors with parental consent, meaning a 13-year-old can get ear piercings, nose piercings, lip piercings, or other body piercings. However, genital piercings are prohibited for anyone under 18, regardless of parental consent. This is a clear legal line that reputable piercers will not cross.

Beyond legal restrictions, professional piercers use judgment based on anatomy, healing time, and the minor's maturity level. A responsible piercer will discuss the best placement for your teenager's first piercing, considering factors like:

• Healing time (ear piercings typically heal in 4-6 weeks, while cartilage takes 6-12 months)
• Daily activities and school policies
• Jewelry maintenance requirements
• Potential complications based on anatomy

When you visit Multnomah Body Piercing for a consultation, the professional piercers will thoroughly discuss these considerations with both you and your teenager, ensuring the choice is appropriate and well-informed.

Important Safety Considerations Before Getting Your Teen Pierced

Before your 13-year-old gets pierced in Oregon, take time to prepare:

Verify the Piercer's Qualifications: Call ahead and ask about the piercer's training, experience, and certifications. Legitimate shops have nothing to hide. Established businesses like Multnomah Body Piercing openly discuss their credentials and welcome questions from concerned parents.

Understand Aftercare Requirements: Piercings require consistent care to prevent infection. Your teenager will need to clean the piercing 1-2 times daily using the aftercare solution recommended by the piercer. Commitment to proper aftercare is essential for healing.

Discuss Jewelry Selection: Initial jewelry should be made from high-quality materials like surgical steel, titanium, or gold. Cheap jewelry can cause allergic reactions and infections. Quality matters significantly in the first weeks of healing.

Know the Signs of Infection: Excessive redness, warmth, pus, or severe pain beyond the first few days may indicate infection. Your teen should know when to seek help, whether from the piercer or a healthcare provider.

What to Bring When Getting Your 13-Year-Old Pierced in Oregon

When you visit a piercing establishment with your teenager, prepare these documents and items:

• Valid government-issued photo ID for the parent/guardian (driver's license or state ID)
• Proof of the parent/guardian's relationship to the minor if needed
• Signed parental consent form (the shop will provide this)
• Any medical history relevant to piercing (allergies, bleeding disorders, immune system conditions)
• A way to pay (most shops accept cash and cards)

The piercer will explain the entire process before beginning, including what to expect during and after the piercing. This conversation is your opportunity to ask questions and ensure your teenager is comfortable with the decision.

Choosing Multnomah Body Piercing for Your Family's Piercing Needs

When seeking a 13-year-old pierced in Oregon, trust matters. Multnomah Body Piercing has served Oregon families since 1974, earning a reputation as Oregon's original piercing family. Their experienced team understands the unique needs of young clients and takes parental concerns seriously.

Whether your teenager wants their first ear piercing or a more creative piercing, the professionals at Multnomah Body Piercing will ensure the experience is safe, clean, and respectful. They'll answer your questions about Oregon's regulations, aftercare, and what to expect—giving both you and your teen confidence in the process.

Ready to explore piercing options for your 13-year-old? Contact Multnomah Body Piercing today to schedule a consultation with Oregon's most trusted piercing professionals. Let your teenager express themselves safely and responsibly with a shop that's been perfecting their craft for nearly five decades.